How Big Can a Squad Be in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
The question of squad size is crucial in the tactical landscape of XCOM 2: War of the Chosen. While the base game imposes a certain limit, the expansion and the modding community offer opportunities to field larger, more diverse squads. So, let’s delve into the specifics. In XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, the base maximum squad size without mods and excluding specific, one-off missions, is 6 soldiers. However, this can be increased through several game mechanics and modifications.
Squad Size in the Base Game vs. War of the Chosen
The core gameplay of XCOM 2 centers around strategic squad deployments to combat the alien threat. In the vanilla version, the maximum size for a squad is 6 soldiers, with some special missions allowing a larger contingent. This limitation is intentional, designed to create challenging situations where every unit counts, and tactical decisions are of the utmost importance.
War of the Chosen does not change the default squad size limit of 6, but it introduces mechanics that, while not directly changing squad size, do alter how you approach battles. The introduction of Hero Classes such as the Reaper, Templar, and Skirmisher, who each have their own unique abilities, add another layer of tactical depth to the game. These classes can often act as highly versatile solo units, effectively making your 6-man squad feel much larger than the vanilla version.
Modding for Expanded Squad Sizes
For players seeking more flexibility in squad composition, the game’s modding community provides a solution. By editing the game’s configuration files, specifically XComMissions.ini, players can modify the MaxSoldiers= variable to increase squad size beyond the base game limitations. It is important to note that while the UI supports up to 12 soldiers, pushing the limit beyond that can cause instability and issues.
The ability to field up to 12 soldiers can radically change the game’s difficulty. It allows for greater tactical flexibility, as you can bring more specialized units and effectively overwhelm the enemy. However, it also carries the risk of increasing the game’s complexity, with the player needing to manage more soldiers and their respective abilities.
Squad Composition: The Art of Team Building
Regardless of squad size, proper squad composition is vital for success in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen. A balanced approach that leverages different class abilities is essential to handle a wide range of threats. A popular mid-game build often features:
- Two Rangers: Focused on high damage output and close-quarters combat.
- One Specialist: Capable of support abilities like hacking, healing, and crowd control.
- One Grenadier: Offering explosive power and utility to manipulate the battlefield.
- One Sharpshooter: Providing long-range firepower and strategic flanking.
While this is a standard build, players are free to experiment with different classes and roles. The introduction of the Hero Classes in War of the Chosen adds even more depth and possibilities. It’s not uncommon to build a squad around a Reaper for scouting and stealth, while supporting them with a Templar for melee control and a Skirmisher for fast flanking maneuvers.
Squad Size in XCOM Long War
It is worth noting that the popular XCOM Long War mod, known for its increased difficulty and deeper tactical experience, also alters the squad size mechanics. In Long War, the starting squad size is the same at 6. However, upgrades in the Officer Training School can increase this to 8 soldiers. Though, it is vital to mention that the requirements for these squad size upgrades are different and more challenging in Long War compared to the base game. Furthermore, when defending the XCOM HQ in Long War, the squad size is fixed at 6.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the default squad size in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
The default squad size, without mods or specific missions, is 6 soldiers.
2. Can I increase squad size in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
Yes, you can increase squad size by modifying the game files or using mods. The UI typically supports up to 12 soldiers.
3. How do I modify squad size in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
You need to go into the XComMissions.ini file and edit all instances of MaxSoldiers= to your desired value, keeping in mind the UI supports a maximum of 12.
4. Does War of the Chosen change the default squad size?
No, War of the Chosen does not change the default squad size of 6, although it introduces new hero classes that augment your tactical options.
5. What is the squad size in XCOM Long War?
XCOM Long War starts with a squad size of 6, which can be increased to 8 via Officer Training School upgrades.
6. What is a good squad composition in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
A typical mid-game build includes two Rangers, one Specialist, one Grenadier, and one Sharpshooter, with adjustments based on preference and available hero classes.
7. Can I have more than 12 soldiers in a squad using mods?
It is technically possible through advanced modding. However, the UI might not support it, leading to potential instability and issues.
8. What are the benefits of having a larger squad?
A larger squad provides greater tactical flexibility, increased firepower, and allows you to field more specialized units. However, it also can increase the complexity of battles.
9. Do special missions have larger squad sizes?
Yes, some special missions in XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen allow for larger squad deployments than the default 6.
10. Are there any penalties for using a larger squad size?
Larger squad sizes can increase the game’s complexity, and the player needs to manage more soldiers’ abilities and positions.
11. How do Hero Classes affect squad dynamics?
Hero classes like Reapers, Templars, and Skirmishers add tactical versatility to squads, often acting as powerful solo units, effectively boosting the squad’s overall combat effectiveness.
12. Can dead soldiers be recovered?
Yes, soldiers can carry fallen comrades. If a dead soldier is retrieved, you recover their gear. A wounded soldier will not bleed out if rescued.
13. Can I lose Chosen weapons permanently?
Yes, Chosen weapons are unique and will be permanently lost if the soldier wielding them dies and is not successfully evacuated.
14. Is XCOM 2: War of the Chosen harder than the base game?
Generally, War of the Chosen is considered harder, particularly in the early game due to the introduction of the Chosen. However, with upgrades, the mid-to-late game might feel easier than the base game.
15. What is the most powerful weapon in XCOM 2?
The Plasma Bolt Caster is considered one of the most powerful weapons in the game due to its damage output.
In conclusion, the squad size in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is initially limited to 6, but the ability to modify this through game files or mods provides players with customizable tactical experiences. Whether you prefer the tight, calculated skirmishes of a smaller squad or the chaotic, all-out warfare of a larger force, XCOM 2 offers the flexibility to play the game your way. Mastering squad size and composition, however, is vital for success in this unforgiving tactical landscape.